How To Clean Blackstone

Cleaning a Blackstone griddle requires a few tools, hot water, and cooking oil. Our guide explains how to clean Blackstone with these tools and some easy-to-follow steps.

Written by This Old House Reviews Team Updated 11/12/2024

Blackstone griddles are beloved for their versatility and ability to cook delicious meals outdoors. However, regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to keep your griddle performing at its best. This guide will walk you through cleaning your Blackstone griddle, from routine care to deep cleaning and rust removal. By following these steps, you’ll ensure your griddle remains in top condition for years of outdoor cooking enjoyment.

Why Do You Need To Clean a Blackstone Griddle?

Maintaining a clean Blackstone griddle is crucial for several reasons.

Enhance performance: Leaving leftover food particles on your griddle’s surface can lead to uneven heating and inconsistent cooking. A clean griddle delivers heat evenly and gives you better nonstick performance.
Ensure food safety: Leftover food particles are a breeding ground for bacteria. Cleaning the griddle after every use eliminates the risk of contaminating your delicious dishes with bacteria and ensures you can prepare every meal on a clean, safe surface.
Extend your griddle’s lifespan: Blackstone griddles have a steel surface, which can rust if you allow prolonged contact with food particles, grease, or moisture. Rust can quickly corrode your griddle, leading to cracks and making it unsafe. Cleaning the surface will remove debris and protect the griddle so you can enjoy it for many more years.

How To Clean Your Blackstone Griddle After Each Use

Cleaning your Blackstone griddle is easy, and you probably already have most of the tools. You’ll need the following:

Essential Cleaning Tools

Metal spatula or Blackstone griddle scraper
Microfiber cloth
Nonabrasive scouring pad, pumice, or grill stone (for deep cleaning)
Paper towels
Squeeze or spray bottle for water
Tongs

Step-by-Step Guide for Routine Blackstone Griddle Cleaning

Regular cleaning after each use is crucial for maintaining your Blackstone griddle. Follow these steps for routine cleaning:

Cooling Down the Griddle

Always begin by turning off your griddle and allowing it to cool completely. This typically takes 30–45 minutes, depending on how high the heat was set. Achieving a complete cool-down ensures safe handling of the griddle and makes it easier to remove food residues.

Scraping Off Food Debris

Once cooled, use a metal spatula or griddle scraper to remove any stuck-on food particles. Push the debris towards the grease management system at the back of the griddle. This helps keep the surface tidy and preps it for the next step effectively.

Using Water and Heat for Stubborn Residue

For tougher residue, spray hot water on the griddle surface using a squeeze or spray bottle. The hot water will help lift stubborn food particles. Scrape again, moving the loosened debris to the grease trap. This method leverages the power of heat to break down and lift stuck-on grime.

Drying and Seasoning the Surface

Thoroughly dry the griddle with paper towels or a microfiber cloth to prevent rust. Once dry, apply a thin layer of cooking oil to the entire surface, including the sides and back. This oil layer protects against rust and maintains the nonstick properties, ensuring a smooth cooking experience with every use.

Deep Cleaning Your Blackstone Griddle

While routine cleaning is usually sufficient, occasional deep cleaning is necessary to remove built-up grease and grime. Deep cleaning is an opportunity to revive your griddle, making sure it’s in optimal working condition for your next cookout.

When To Perform a Deep Clean

Consider deep cleaning your griddle if you notice:

Excessive caked-on grease
Uneven heating on the cooking surface
Food sticking more than usual

Neglecting these signs can lead to more difficult cleaning later and possible damage to your griddle over time.

Deep Cleaning Process

Allow the griddle to cool completely.
Mix warm water with mild dish soap in a bucket.
Gently scrub the surface with a nonabrasive scouring pad dipped in the soapy water.
For stubborn spots, create a paste with baking soda and water, apply it to the area, and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing.
Rinse the griddle thoroughly with clean water.
Dry the surface completely with paper towels or a microfiber cloth.

This process is key in maintaining the effectiveness of your griddle’s cooking surface, ensuring a hygienic and satisfying cooking experience.

Restoring the Seasoning After Deep Cleaning

After deep cleaning, it’s crucial to reseason your griddle:

Apply a thin layer of cooking oil to the entire surface.
Heat the griddle on high for about 15 minutes until the oil starts to smoke.
Turn off the heat and allow the griddle to cool.
Repeat this process 2–3 times to build up a strong seasoning layer.

This reseasoning process is important as it reinforces the griddle’s nonstick shield, prolonging its effectiveness and ensuring tasty results every time.

How To Remove Rust From Your Blackstone Griddle

Rust can be a serious issue for Blackstone griddles, but with prompt attention, it can be addressed effectively. Handling rust efficiently keeps your griddle lasting longer and helps maintain the quality of the food you prepare.

Identifying Rust Issues

Inspect your griddle regularly for signs of rust, which may appear as reddish-brown spots or flakes on the cooking surface. Early detection allows for easier management and keeps your griddle looking new and working properly.

Rust Removal Techniques

To remove rust:

Scrape away loose rust flakes with a metal scraper.
For stubborn rust, use a wet grill stone or pumice, scrubbing in a circular motion.
Alternatively, apply a thick paste of baking soda and water to rusty areas, let it sit for 10 minutes, then scrub.
Wipe the surface clean with a damp paper towel.
Dry thoroughly and immediately apply a thin coat of cooking oil to prevent further rusting.

These techniques are designed to tackle rust without damaging the griddle, restoring it to its optimal condition.

Preventing Future Rust

To prevent rust:

Always dry your griddle completely after cleaning.
Store your griddle in a cool, dry place.
Use a griddle cover when not in use.
Maintain a good seasoning layer on the cooking surface.

Proactive care is key to avoiding rust issues, safeguarding your investment in quality outdoor cooking equipment.

Maintaining Your Blackstone Between Uses

Proper maintenance between uses is key to keeping your Blackstone griddle in top condition. It requires a proactive approach, ensuring that your equipment is ready whenever culinary inspiration strikes.

Proper Storage Practices

When not in use:

Ensure the griddle is clean and completely dry.
Cover the griddle with a fitted cover or store it in a dry area.
If possible, store the griddle indoors to protect it from the elements.

Implementing these storage methods helps to minimize wear and tear and avoids potential damage from weather or other environmental factors.

Regular Seasoning Tips

To maintain a good seasoning layer:

Apply a thin oil coating after each use.
Periodically heat the oiled surface to strengthen the seasoning.
If the seasoning starts to wear, perform a full reseasoning process.

Staying diligent with these practices keeps your griddle effective and prolongs its service, fostering many more delightful meals.

Our Conclusion

A Blackstone griddle is an incredible addition to an outdoor kitchen. You should clean it after every use, deep clean it occasionally, and watch out for rust. Use hot water and a quality metal spatula to scrape your griddle’s surface, and use soap sparingly to keep your seasoning layer intact. This ensures your griddle heats evenly, preserves its nonstick surface, and delivers perfectly cooked food for years.

FAQ About How To Clean Blackstone

How often should you clean your Blackstone griddle?

Clean your Blackstone griddle after every use, and deep clean the cooking surface after every couple of uses. Avoid harsh chemicals. Instead, use hot water, a little bit of mild dish soap, and a nonabrasive scrubber to clean the surface. Always dry your griddle thoroughly and reseason often to protect it from rust.

Can you use Dawn dish soap on a Blackstone griddle?

You can use Dawn dish soap on a Blackstone griddle but use it sparingly. Using too much soap or using it too often can harm the seasoning layer.

What’s the best way to clean a Blackstone griddle?

The best way to clean a Blackstone griddle is with a metal spatula and hot water. You can use a mild dish soap or a paste of baking soda and water for deeper cleaning. Always dry the griddle completely and reseason it with your favorite cooking oil before storing it in a cool, dry place.

Should you clean Blackstone after every use?

Yes, you should clean your Blackstone griddle after every use. Scrape food particles off the surface with a metal spatula, depositing them in the grease management system. Then reseason the flat top and ensure the griddle is completely dry before storing it.

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